Sunshine Bridge closed indefinitely

Friday

Oct 12, 2018 at 9:56 AMOct 12, 2018 at 9:57 AM

The Sunshine Bridge on La. 70 over the Mississippi River is closed indefinitely after a barge collided with the bridge Friday morning.

Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development said the collision severely damaged one of the main load-carrying members of the bridge. The bridge will remain closed until the necessary repairs are made and DOTD determines that the bridge is safe for the traveling public. DOTD has identified a contractor to make the necessary repairs once it is determined what those repairs will be.

“We know the closure of the Sunshine Bridge is an inconvenience for many travelers, and we will expedite the emergency repairs,” DOTD Secretary Shawn D. Wilson said. “That being said, safety is our number one concern and we have to ensure the bridge can safely handle traffic before it’s reopened.”

DOTD inspectors are on site using drones and other technology to inspect the bridge for any additional damage.

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